How Did BJP Leader Purnesh Modi Become Gujarat Assembly's Deputy Speaker?
Synopsis
In a pivotal moment for Gujarat politics, Purnesh Modi of the BJP has been elected as the Deputy Speaker of the Gujarat Assembly during the Budget session. His election sparked debates about parliamentary traditions and the representation of opposition members. What does this mean for the political landscape in Gujarat?
Key Takeaways
Purnesh Modi was elected as Deputy Speaker of the Gujarat Assembly.
The election occurred on the first day of the Budget session .
BJP's majority facilitated the election.
Concerns were raised by the Congress regarding the representation of opposition members.
The Aam Aadmi Party abstained from voting.
Gandhinagar, February 16 (NationPress) On the inaugural day of the Budget session, Purnesh Modi, a Member of the Legislative Assembly from Surat West representing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and a former Gujarat Minister, was elected as the Deputy Speaker of the Gujarat Assembly.
The nomination for Purnesh Modi was put forth by seasoned BJP leader Jitu Vaghani.
In response, the Congress party nominated Shailesh Parmar for the role, with his candidacy being supported by party MLA Dinesh Thakor.
The Assembly conducted a voice vote in favor of Purnesh Modi, which passed successfully due to the BJP's majority.
The Assembly Speaker, Shankar Chaudhary, later confirmed Purnesh Modi's election.
Following this, Rushikesh Patel, the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs in Gujarat, guided Purnesh Modi to his position next to the Leader of the Opposition.
After honoring departed members, the Assembly proceeded to elect the Deputy Speaker.
During the discussions, Congress MLA Shailesh Parmar argued that, adhering to parliamentary traditions, the Deputy Speaker's role should have been granted to an Opposition member.
He accused the BJP of deviating from traditional practices by leveraging their majority to secure the role.
Shailesh Parmar also expressed concerns regarding the insufficient representation of Opposition members in significant committees, such as the Public Accounts Committee, within Gujarat.
After his election, Purnesh Modi conveyed his appreciation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP President Nitin Nabin, BJP General Secretary (Organisation) B.L. Santhosh, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, and State BJP President Jagdish Vishwakarma for their trust in him.
"The BJP has believed in me and granted me the chance to compete for this esteemed role," remarked the Surat West MLA.
Following the announcement, members from the Treasury benches chanted slogans in support of Purnesh Modi.
The Aam Aadmi Party chose not to endorse either candidate for the Deputy Speaker position in the Gujarat Assembly.
Dediyapada AAP MLA Chaitar Vasava stated that the party abstained from voting to avoid any potential cross-voting within the Congress, as the election outcome seemed predetermined.
Earlier that day, the proceedings of the House began with the traditional address by Governor Acharya Devvrat.
Nonetheless, Congress MLAs interrupted the speech with slogans demanding various issues, including a farm loan waiver, cessation of outsourcing in government departments, permanent recruitment in state services, and action against illegal sale of liquor and drugs.
Point of View
The election of Purnesh Modi as Deputy Speaker highlights the ongoing political contestation between Gujarat's ruling BJP and the opposition. While the BJP leverages its majority to assert control, the Congress raises concerns over representation and adherence to parliamentary traditions. This scenario emphasizes the delicate balance of power in regional politics and the importance of opposition voices in democratic governance.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Purnesh Modi?
Purnesh Modi is a Member of the Legislative Assembly from Surat West, representing the Bharatiya Janata Party, and a former Minister in Gujarat.
What position was Purnesh Modi elected to?
Purnesh Modi was elected as the Deputy Speaker of the Gujarat Assembly.
Who proposed Purnesh Modi's candidacy?
His candidacy was proposed by veteran BJP leader Jitu Vaghani.
What concerns did the Congress raise regarding the election?
The Congress raised concerns about the lack of opposition representation and adherence to parliamentary conventions.
Did the Aam Aadmi Party support any candidate?
No, the Aam Aadmi Party did not support either candidate for the Deputy Speaker's position.
